Air Marshal Vinod Patney has been in command of Western Air Command since 01 April 97. Operation Vijay was launched to evict the enemy from Kargil heights in May1999. Western Air Command was given the responsibility for conduct of air operations in the area. Use of Air Power in such mountainous terrain had no precedence in the past. The enemy was entrenched at heights of 15,000 feet and above and was well equipped with mobile Surface to Air Missiles. The rules of engagement of target by our aircraft were constrained and the higher directions of war mandated implicit respect of the Line of Control. Despite these limitations, Air Marshal Vinod Patney effectively mobilised the forces placed under him to plan and execute the operational plan. The Indian Army was under pressure from enemy ground forces, but as soon as the IAF went into action, the tide was turned. Initial loss of aircraft was analysed in a professional and confident manner and new tactics were developed. Air attacks continued with devastating effect. With his incisive ability he took bold decisions to direct air attacks on enemy targets, which resulted in inflicting maximum damage on the war making po tential of the enemy. The enemy capitulated in a time span shorter than anticipated. The tangible success of air operations eventually enabled the Army to physically eject the intruders with minimal losses.

The success of air operations in Op Vijay was highly decisive and without parallel in the history of aerial warfare. The outstanding leadership provided by Air Marshal Vinod Patney during this period was the clinching factor for success of air operations. His professional abilities and willingness to take bold decisions in war effectively proved to be the turning point in the military victory in Op Vijay.

Air Marshal Vinod Patney displayed professional leadership and devotion to duty of the highest order.

During the operations in Goa, Daman and Diu, Air Vice Marshal Erlic W Pinto was A.O.C-IN-C, Operational Command for overall conduct of air operations. His directive was to assist the land forces in the attainment of their objective with the use of minimum force. The risk of casualties to the civil population in air operations was inherent. As a result of meticulous by Air Vice Marshal Pinto and efficient coordination, the air operations in the three enclaves were carried out most successfully.

With the outbreak of the Chinese hostilities in 1962 the air operational commitments assumed vast proportions in J & K area as the land forces were largely dependent upon the Air Force for supplies, ammunitions and evacuation of casualties. The resources at Air Vice Marshal Pinto's disposal remained unaltered. However, he faced the situation with his usual calm and reorganized the units under his command to undertake the intensive logistic support required. To infuse confidence in his officers and men he led many difficult airlift missions with complete disregard to his personal safety. The first landing at forward outpost entailed use of a river bed which is the highest 'airstrip' in the world. In spite of the hazards involved, Air Vice Marshal Pinto decided to proceed on this flight himself to check operating conditions there.

As A.O.C-in-C Operational Command, Air Vice Marshal Pinto has all along displayed initiative, drive and leadership of a very high order.

Air Vice Marshal (now Air Marshal) Shivdev Singh was commissioned in the Air Force in 1940. He has held important appointments in Air Headquarters as well as in the Command of various Air Force Units. He attended the Royal Air Force Staff College in the U.K. in 1951. Before taking up the assignments of Air Officer Commandingin-Chief, Western Air Command in March 1966, he served as Air Officer Commandingin-Chief, Central Air Command. By his hard work, drive and initiative, he has improved the operational preparedness and efficiency of the units under his Command. Western Air Command is also engaged continuously in airlifting supplies to forward areas. Under his able leadership, the Command has been able to achieve airlift targets without sacrificing safety.

Air Marshal Hrushikesh Moolgavkar was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in November, 1940. During World War II, he served with two Fighter Squadrons and saw action on the Burma Front. Soon after the Pakistani Aggression in J & K in 1947 he took over command of the Operational Wing at a forward base. He planned and directed the Air Operations and personally led a number of operational missions against the enemy with outstanding success. For his acts of gallantry during these operations, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra. Air Marshal Moolgavkar has held with distinction important appointments of Air Adviser to our High Commission in the United Kingdom, Senior Staff Officer at Western Air Command, Director of Policy and Plans at Air Headquarters, Air Officer-in-Charge Western India, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Central Air Command and Commandant, National Defence College. In all these assignments, he has displayed outstanding qualities of leadership and dedication and has set high standards in raising the operational efficiency in the Service. At National Defence College he introduced many developments in the teaching curriculum and studies to give this institution the prestige and honour that it enjoys today.

In April, 1973, Air Marshal Moolgavkar took over as Air Officer Commanding-inChief, Western Air Command, and by his untiring efforts brought about improvements in combat efficiency of the units and stations placed under his Command. His sense of dedication and involvement has been a source of inspiration to all his commanders. It was during his tenure as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, that the Western Air Command produced spectacular results in the field of Flight Safety. In most of his assignments, Air Marshal Moolgavkar had to undertake pioneering work either in establishing new organisations intimately connected with the operational role of the Air Force or in bringing about improvements in the conduct of operations in a new theatre of responsibility.

Throughout, Air Marshal Moolgavkar rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Danis Anthony La Fontaine AVSM VM (3844) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in April, 1950. During his long service career he has held a variety of Command and staff appointments with distinction at various levels including the policy making level.

His Command appointments include the Command of two frontline fighter Squadrons and two major operational bases when he accomplished high rate of aircraft serviceability, enhanced operational preparedness and all round efficiency.

As Chief Instructor at Air Force Academy on its inauguration, Air Marshal DA La Fontaine was personally responsible for meticulous planning and methodical move of the entire Flying Training School from Jodhpur to the Academy, with speed and purpose. He, as Chief Instructor, reoriented the training pattern in the Air Force and designed the major training directives for the Academy which for the first time in the Air Force fixed the principles, standards and techniques for teaching in the air and on the ground.

After successfully graduating from the National Defence College, he was appointed as Air 1 at Headquarters Western Air Command, and later as Air Officer Commanding of a major base in the western sector. In these appointments he made substantial contribution in achieving optimum utilization of fighter forces under his command. Air Marshal DA La Fontaine was Senior Air Staff Officer Western Air Command since December, 1978, until he took over as Air Officer Incharge Personnel in Jan 83. During this period he displayed qualities of dynamic leadership, coupled with professional and managerial competence,

Air Marshal Danis Anthony La Fontaine AVSM VM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Adi Rustomji Ghandhi AVSM VrC (7722) F (P) was commissioned in Air Force on 28 Oct 63. During his 39 years of service, he has held many Important and challenging field and staff appointments which include Command of a fighter squadron, Command of a prestigious Air Force Station, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (PO), Commandant of College of Air Warfare, Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of South Western Air Command and Western Air Command. Presently he holds the appointment of Air Officer Commanding-inChief, Western Air Command. He has taken part in both the lndo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 06 Sep 65 for acts of gallantry.

As Air Officer Commanding of an important fighter base, where both the Mirage of the IAF along with a Squadron each of Pechora and OSA-AK-M missiles are located, he displayed total dedication to service and absolute involvement in all activities of the base. As a result, the base and its lodger units acquitted themselves admirably during all Command and Air Headquarter exercises. For his exceptional service and devotion to duty, he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1994.

As Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Personnel Officers) he took keen interest in evolving personnel policies for the Officer cadre of the IAF. As SASO of two operational Commands, he provided the impetus towards greater operational thinking as well as rationalization of infrastructure required within the Command.

On taking over as AOC-in-C of Western Air Command, he set into motion a variety of measures aimed at sharpening the fighting edge of the most important Command of the IAF. He also strived relentlessly to improve the work culture, morale and motivation level of the personnel at all levels. As a result, the Command was able to mobilise resources and move units to their Op locations in the shortest possible time during of Op Parakram.

Air Mshl Ghandhi has been instrumental in initiating a series of major drives to reduce accidents due to bird strikes, beautification of technical and domestic areas improving the quality of output by the MES and most important of all, improving the quality of life of Air Force Personnel specially at remote and difficult Stations.

Air Marshal Adi Rustomji Ghandhi AVSM VrC has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Avdesh Kumar Singh, AVSM, VM, VSM (11005), Flying (Pilot), was commissioned on 04 June 1967 in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force and has more than 5000 hrs of accident free flying on 17 different types of aircraft. He has held various Command and Staff assignments during his 38 years of distinguished service in the Air Force, which include Command of a Fighter Squadron, Commander Delhi Area Air Defence, Command of an Air Base, Air-I of Western Air Command (WAC), Air Commodore Operations at an Army Command, ACAS (Trg), Air HQ, Director General (Inspection & Safety) and SASO of WAC before taking over as AOC-in-C, WAC, IAF. He was also President, Services Sports Control Board and member of Board of Directors, International Military Sports Council.

Air Marshal AK Singh was the youngest transport pilot to participate in the historical “Tangail Operations" during the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971. He is the only pilot to convert from transport stream to fighters and successfully led a Jaguar Squadron in operations. During Kargil Operations the officer, as then Air-I, Western Air Command conducted the fighter operation with astute planning and dedication, which was instrumental in bringing the engagement to a very successful culmination.

The Air Mshl, as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Training), was instrumental in successfully steering the case for recognition of flying qualification of military pilots and equation of technical and non-technical training in the IAF with civil Diplomas. As Director General (Inspection &. Safety), he assumed functions of quality assurance and published a book specifying the quality of products acceptable in service which empowered the users to reject lower quality products. He was appointed as Senior Air Staff Officer, Western Air Command, in September 04 and he organized as well as executed realistic training exercises, which contributed to the outstanding performance of IAF forces in international exercises. During this tenure Host Squadron and Armament Training Concepts were also introduced, which have resulted in enormous saving to the IAF.

As AOC-in-C, WAC the Air Marshal used his vast experience to make significant administrative improvement in the work environment and improved quality of life of personnel below officer rank. His planning and execution skill were once again put to test when Western Air Command aircraft were called for aid to civil power when 47,000 people were evacuated from Srinagar valley and Ladakh during unprecedented heavy snowfall in January-February 05. The relief and rescue operations were also carried out in Jammu area where flash floods had struck without any notice and thereafter 140 people were evacuated. It was under his able guidance and leadership that such a massive peacetime operation was carried out successfully.

Air Marshal Avdesh Kumar Singh, AVSM, VM, VSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Satinder Singh Dhillon was commissioned on 17 Oct 63 in Engineering branch of the IAF. For his distinguished service, he was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in 1981 and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1999.

AVM SS Dhillon has been working as Senior Maintenance Staff Officer, Western Air Command since 30 Jun 97. With his foresight, astute planning and perseverance, he was able to provide anew purpose and direction to the maintenance personnel at the field units.

During Kargil conflict, the officer toured the units extensively to have first-hand information on maintenance activities. He, thereafter, interacted with the repair agencies to maximize serviceability of aircraft and ground support systems. All vital systems of the aircraft, radar and Nav Aids were thoroughly checked during the preparatory phase to ensure optimal performance. The most significant results of his endeavors was the remarkable feat of maintaining an average serviceability of deployed fighter aircraft above 95% and Radars near 100% throughout the operations.

The officer had a daunting task of making up deficiencies of either Air Armament Weapons or their matching fusing com-ponents at the forward bases. Due to his dedicated, diligent and selfless professional approach, Western Air Command was able to affect movement of more than 2500 tons of Armament stores to our forward bases by Air/ Road.

Air Vice Marshal, SS Dhillon thus ren-dered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal JK Pathania was commissioned on 11 Dec 1963 in Administrative branch. During his service career of 36 years he has held important field and staff assignments. He is a graduate of DSSC and is a recipient of Vishisht Seva Medal and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal. During Op 'Safed Sagar', he was Senior Officer in-charge Administration at HQ WAC IAF. Immediately on declaration of operations, he initiated essential and vital measures at forward operational bases in J&K Sector, Punjab and Haryana to support sustained air operation. Augmented manpower was properly received, distributed and requisite admin facilities were set uphill record time. Security arrangements at bases particularly at Srinagar and Awantipur were promptly beefed up through effective ground defence system and camouflaging to provide safe working environment. Emergency works services were planned and initiated most efficiently. Admin support systems like uninterrupted stabilised electric and water supply were monitored and maintained to ensure that air operations are not hampered at bases due to these factors. Runway rehabilitation schemes were formulated, practiced and kept in a high state of preparedness to meet any contingency. The administrative requirements of the forward bases were closely monitored through personal visits and constant dialogue with commanders to ensure optimum admin efficiency and high state of morale of the personnel in the field.

Air Vice Marshal JK Pathania thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Keki Nadirshah Gocal has been Senior Air Staff, Officer of Headquarters Western Air Command since 30th December 1963. A competent pilot, who is at home in almost all the type of aircraft in that Command, be they fighters, bombers, transport or helicopters, he has applied his knowledge of the aircraft and their performance to good effect in the preparation of operational plans.

When hostilities between India and Pakistan broke out, the task of preparing operational plans based on the general directive of Air Headquarters fell on Air Commodore Gocal. Allocation of targets to the fighters, fighter bombers involved a thorough study of the radius of action, take off distance with different war loads in the sharply varying temperatures, the type of weapon appropriate for the destruction of the target, the amount of fuel to be carried with the particular configuration and the sortie profile in respect of the different types of aircraft employed. His duties also involved the coordination of the effort of the technical and armament staff in working out the deployment of squadrons to bases to achieve the best results. Short of hand, Gocal had to work long hours without any rest and be available for advice to the Unit Commanders. He took on all the tasks cheerfully. By making frequent and unscheduled visits to the frontline units during the operations he ensured the smooth functioning and efficient performance of the squadrons.

Air Commodore Gocal has set a very good example of selfless dedication to duty and rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Commodore Kanvar Singh was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force on the 20th December, 1943. He has served in five fighter and fighter bomber squadrons of the Indian Air Force, of which he has been the commander of two. He is also a qualified flying instructor and has carried out a tenure of duty in this role at an Air Force Flying Training Institution. Air Commodore Kanvar Singh has also commanded an operational wing of the Air Force and has served on the staff of Air Headquarters in various capacities. At present Air Commodore Kanvar Singh is the Air Officer Commanding of an Air Wing in the Rajasthan sector. He was incharge of all Air Force operations in this during the recent operations against Pakistan. He provided all the air support required by the Army. In addition to his own base, he exercised administrative and functional control over two forward bases. By hard work and sound planning, he brought these forward bases to a high degree of operational preparedness.

Throughout the operations, Air Commodore Kanvar Singh successfully completed all the tasks allotted to him and rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Trilochan Singh Brar was commissioned in the Flying (Pilot) of the Indian Air Force in April, 1944. He has held a variety of important flying and staff appointments. Since November, 1970, he has been holding the appointment of Air­I of Headquarters Western Air Command. The Command was required to prepare plans to meet the threat from Pakistan. The preparation of the plan required careful study and prolonged hours of work to ensure that the resources of the Command were utilised in an economical and effective manner.

Air Commodore Trilochan Singh Brar made significant contribution towards the success of Western Air Command's plans during the recent conflict with Pakistan. He has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Aubrey Leslie Michael was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in November, 1946. After serving in active flying squadrons for years, he was selected to attend the Pilot Attack Instructors Course in the United Kingdom which he completed successfully. In 1962, he was selected to attend the Staff College at Wellington. He has commanded two squadron-one fighter bomber squadron in the rank of Squadron Leader and an Air Defence squadron in the rank of Wing Commander. He has been Joint Director of Tactical Operations and, more recently Director Offensive Opera-tions. In these two appointments, his main objectives were study and analysis of the employment of fighter bomber aircraft. He has worked out the utilisation of different types of aircraft in the ground attack, fighter recce and offensive support roles. These studies proved to be of considerable value in working out detailed tactical plans. He was also of great help in planning bomber operations.

Throughout, Group Captain Aubrey Leslie Michael has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Man Singh was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in June, 1951, and has been employed on the operational staff of Headquarters Western Air Command since June 1969. He improved the operational efficiency of the Squadrons under Western Air Command. He successfully organised and conducted numerous exercises to test the efficiency of the Squadrons. He contributed greatly to the formulation of the Operational Plans of the Command and his advice had always been very useful. He made a significant contribution towards the success of the plans of the Command Headquarters during the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971.Throughout, Wing Commander Man Singh displayed professional skill and devotion to duty.

During the tenure as Command Met Officer, he has enhanced the efficiency of meteorological facilities for the optimum operational flying by sheer initiative and enthusiasm. By arranging continuous Met Training and high lighting effects on flying of seasonal weather hazards through periodic circular, he has made the aircrew more weather conscious. He has spared no efforts to ensure that Met Sections situated at remote corners function at the highest efficiency. The officer's forecasting abilities are of a high order. During last two years, Headquarters Western Air Command organised several exercised and fly pasts involving a large number of aircraft. The officer's forecasts in marginal weather conditions were found to be very accurate and extremely useful for carrying out the exercises with safety. During the last twenty five years of active forecasting the officer has developed a deep insight into the ways of weather.

Throughout his service career, the officer has put in very hard work, and willingly met exacting commitments very creditably, in spite of limited staff and facilities. As a Met Officer at various operational Wings, without caring for his personal comforts, this officer worked long hours for several days at a time to cope with the heavy burden. With the cooperation of aircrews he was responsible for planning nearly 300 Met Reconnaissance flights. These have yielded unique and very valuable high level data and have attracted world-wide attention. He identified himself with the aircrews by flying with them whenever possible and by personal interest in their problems and flight safety. As the first Command Met Officer of HQ Training Command, he was responsible for organising Met Training and Met facilities for flying training for aircrews and Met Officers and men, when the Emergency training plan was at its peak strength. Through standardization of Met précis, training aids and frequent inspections of all training Unit he ensured a high standard of Met training and Met facilities.

The officers has flown over 300 hours in various types of aircraft including an eleven hour marathon chase of a severe cyclonic storm in a research aircraft. He has represented India in International Meteorological Seminar and Expedition.

The superb manner in which Wing Commander Deshpande shouldered the great responsibilities in providing excellent meteorological facilities for optimum operational efforts and succeeded in gaining the confidence of aircrew by his accurate predications is in the best and highest traditions of the Indian Air Force.

Wing Commander Man Singh was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Air Force in June, 1951. He served in several operational squadrons, and as an Instructor at the Gunnery School in the Armament Training Wing. Later, he was a member of the Directing Staff of the Joint Air Warfare School, and the Commanding Officer of an operational squadron. In his latter appointment he raised and trained a nine-aircraft formation aerobatic team.

Wing Commander Man Singh has been serving at Headquarters Western Air Command since June, 1969 on staff duties connected with offensive air support operations of the fighter Wings and Squadrons of the Command. He has applied his intimate knowledge of various fighter aircraft and their performance to good effect in the preparation of Operational plans, which have improved the operational potential of the fighter Wings and Squadrons. With his keen intellect, professional acumen, untiring zeal, practical approach to problems and meticulous attention to detail, he has made a significant contribution to improving the operational preparedness of the command.

Throughout his career, Wing Commander Man Singh has rendered distinguished service of a high order. He is awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal.

Squadron leader Sat Pal Choudhary (5207) Technical/Engineering was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in July, 1954. He has served as Chief Technical Officer of three operational Wings and at a Base Repair Depot. Since 1966 he has been serving as a Technical Staff Officer of an Operational Command.

Squadron Leader Choudhary has applied himself diligently to the complex task of aircraft maintenance. He kept in very close touch with the units of the Command and has been able to provide them professional advice and technical resources they required to accomplish their tasks.

Squadron Leader Choudhary has a special aptitude for planning and coordination and is constantly endeavouring to improve upon the existing techniques and procedures for maintenance. With his analytical approach to the problems and with his zeal for improvement, he has converted the Statistical Data Rooms at every station into Maintenance Control Rooms. This has led to greatly improved coordination of manpower and materials in striving for maximum output.

Throughout his career Squadron Leader Sat Pal Choudhary has rendered distinguished service of a high order. He is awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal.

Squadron Leader Prem Prakash Agarwal was commissioned in the Education Branch of the Indian Air Force 1st March 1955. He has been serving as the Staff Officer to the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Air Command since August 1969

his sustained hard work and thorough study, he kept himself fully conversant with all problems face various establishments under Western Air Command. He vigorously perused action on each point raised during the visits of the A.O.C.-in-C. to Wings/Units and kept an up-to-date record of the progress made. His exemplary staff work, clarity of thought and expression were of immense help to all concerned.

During the Indo-Pak hostilities in December, 1971, he worked for long hours and successfully coordinated staff work amongst Operational, Administrative and Maintenance cells. It was mainly due to his efforts that all relevant information from mission reports received at the operations centre were promptly processed and passed to Administrative and Maintenance staff and actioned without any delay. He confidently dealt with all routine matters within the framework of broad directive of the A.O.C.in-C. and there by helped the A.O.C.-in-C. in devoting his full attention to the operations in the Western Sector.

Squadron Leader Prem Prakash Agarwal displayed high professional knowledge, capacity for sustained work and devotion to duty in the best traditions of the Indian Air Force and has rendered distinguished service of a high order. He is awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal.

Squadron Leader Commander Manmohan Waman Desai (5524) was commissioned in Accounts Branch of the Indian Air Force in June 1958. He had been working in the Western Air Command Accounts Section from September, 1973 to February, 1976. During his stay in the Command he had been dealing with cash audit objections, pay and allowances budget and funds. His professional competence and analytical approach to problems have been instrumental in providing proper guidance to the units on accounting matters. His initiative zeal and enthusiasm have resulted in the achievement of tasks and targets set by Air Headquarters. Unmindful of personal inconvenience he has worked long hours with a single minded purpose to ensure prompt and efficient accounting services and guidance to the units. He had also established an effective rapport with all the sections at Command Headquarters thus achieving a high degree of cooperation and coordination.

Squadron Leader Desai was also the Officer in-charge Canteen during his stay in the Command. He had streamlined the working of the Canteen and by his initiative and hard work was able to provide efficient canteen services to all the personnel when scarcity and high prices prevailed in the civil markets. This had kept the morale of the men high.

For his outstanding devotion to duty, dedicated hard work, extreme reliability and professional capability, Squadron Leader Manmohan Waman Desai is awarded Vishisht Seva Medal.

Group Captain Sushil Kumar Mukherjee joined the Army Medical Corps on 15 October, 1948 and was seconded to the Air Force on 6 November 1948. He distinguished himself by standing first in primary and advanced Aviation Medicine Courses.

As Assistant Director of Medical Services (Flight Safety), he developed improved techniques for investigating medical aspects of aircraft accidents and formulated several measures to reduce human error factors. While serving with the Directorate of Technical Development and Production (Air), he was responsible for the development, evaluation and drawing up specification for various items of flying clothing, safety and survival equipment thereby effecting considerable savings of foreign exchange. In his capacity as the Deputy Principal Medical Officer, Western Air Command, he also prepared lecture notes for the guidance of aircrew and squadron medial officers. As Senior Advisor in Aviation Medicine he has guided various aviation medicine research projects and has also made valuable contribution in the field of aviation medicine.

For his distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sushil Kumar Mukherjee.0020

Wing Commander Chitra Gupta Mangal was commissioned in the Administrative Branch of the IAF on 1st June, 1958. He has the singular distinction of having served simultaneously as OC (Unit) and Staff Officer to the AOC-in-C, both at HQ CAC and HQ WAC.

In his early career at training units at Jalahalli and Tambaram, he made invaluable contributions towards the general administration and training activities of the IAF as for instance:- a. At Medical Centre, Jalahalli, he revised the entire training syllabus which had farreaching and long-lasting impact on the quality of out put of airmen. b. As Commander of the Basic Squadron at Tambaram, he introduced a system of screening, training and battle inoculation including range firing for ab initio recruits which improved the standards of physical fitness and fighting capability of the airmen. c. As Sports Officer, he was not only responsible for managing and training of Air Force teams at Tambaram, but also had the distinction of winning for the Air Force all the four events in the Inter-Services Championship.

Consequent to the decision to shift HQ CAC from Calcutta to Allahabad, he, as OC Unit and the Staff Officer to the AOC-in-C had the dual responsibility of ensuring a quick and smooth move. He achieved that with distinction without any untoward incident, loss or damage and activated the HQ at Allahabad well before the scheduled date. Shifting of the WAC HQ from its old location at Palam for its new building in Subroto Park complex was achieved in a similar manner. This became feasible by his involvement, meticulous planning and systematic execution. This move entailed the bifurcation of the Airmen's and SNCOs messes between Air Force Palam and HQ, WAC and activation of the same in the new complex. This was accomplished in record time with no disruption of essential services. Likewise, the Non-Public Funds of HQ WAC had to be separated from those of Palam and started afresh. This was achieved by him through persuasiveness, tact and careful planning. Within a short span of one year, he raised the Non-Public Funds from a meagre Rs. 10,000/- to Rs. 60,000/- by his judicious schemes. Besides his normal duty, he was called upon to plan and scrutinise Air Force projects to be progressed by various R&D Establishments. He executed this task with remarkable maturity and confidence which won him appreciation from all concerned. During the development of "RATO" by ISRO, Wing Commander Mangal was entrusted with the task of monitoring its progress and organising the entire administrative arrangements including its trial at Bareilly. This challenging task which was highly technical and sophisticated in nature was accomplished by him with his quick uptake, clear thinking and deep insight. Wing Commander Mangal had the distinction of being the only Admin Officer to have been ever associated with the development of an intricate technical project.

While at Western Air Command within one and a half year he had the distinction of bringing down from over 300 cash and 500 stores objections to a nil state. This was achieved through his consistent efforts, tenacity of purpose and close liaison with the audit staff.

Wing Commander Mangal proved his mettle again as Staff Officer to the Vice Chief of the Air Staff from 1969 till early 1973.

As Officer I/C Administration at AF Station, Tezpur he was responsible for the execution of works services amounting to Rs. 74 lakhs in one year involving relaying of the complete taxi tracks within a record period of 6 months and installation of the GCA set-up within a record period of 4 months. With his flair for constructive planning and ingenuity he mobilised the unexploited potential of the Station which resulted in the growth of the Non-Public Funds by Rupees sixty-four thousand in one year. He was also instrumental in clearing within one year as many as 300 odd audit objections which had accumulated over the years.

Wing Commander Mangal served as DDPS at Air HQ from July 76 onwards. Directorate of Personal Services is the only Directorate having no Joint Director and only one Deputy Director. He handled multitude of subjects to the entire satisfaction of his superiors. Some of his notable achievements were:- a. Clearance of seven disciplinary cases which were pending for the past 5 to 8 years within a period of 6 months. b. Obtaining government sanction which increased the Amenity Grant for AF personnel by Rs. 1.45 lakh per year. c. Securing Government sanction for regularising the expenditure incurred on the modification/stitching of jackets for JWOs. On creation of the new rank of JWO in the IAF, the Government had agreed to the new pattern of jacket for the JWOs but no specific sanction was accorded for modification/ stitching of the jackets. The expenditure already incurred by AF units in this regard amounted to over Rupees Thirty five lakhs and had become a subject of controversy. Through his initiative and liaison with the officials of the Min of Def and Finance he was able to secure Govt sanction not only to cover the expenditure already incurred but also for future expenditure. d. Introduction of new welfare measures by AFWWA. As Hony Secy of AFWWA, he introduced new schemes which provided considerable benefits to the families of serving, retired and deceased AF personnel. A review of the scholarship scheme increased the number of beneficiaries from 23 to 176. The new scheme of vocational training to widows and dependents became very popular. Through his efforts he secured employment for 23 AF families.

With his systematic analysis and pragmatic approach, he induced a sense of purpose amongst all his colleagues and subordinates in all assignments. For this, Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Chitra Gupta Mangal.

Since 24 Nov 79 Wg Cdr JK Pathania is posted as Assistant Director (Operations) at a Command Headquarters and has displayed a high sense of responsibility, trust worthiness and unwavering devotion to duty. In February, 1980 the officer was closely associated with a Joint Exercise held to test the adequacy of Control and Reporting Standard Operating Procedures. The contribution of the office in the exercise was real substantial and praiseworthy.

In Sep 81, the officer planned and conducted exercise to check on preparedness to deal with incident of hijacking. The result of the exercise was very noteworthy.

The contribution of the officer in various Air Defence and Joint Army/Air exercises has been very significant and praiseworthy.

For his exceptional devotion to duty and distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Jagnandon Kumar Pathania.

Wing Commander Dinesh Chandra Dhyani has been on the posted strength of a major Air Force Station since Mar 83. He was commissioned in the Administration Branch in 1962 and later successfully completed an ad-hoc ATC Course.

In 1966, he was posted as Senior Air Traffic Controller at the Pilot Training Establishment, Allahabad. When this unit was moved to Bidar, Wg Cdr Dhyani led the advance party and undertook the task of setting up the Air Traffic Services at Bidar. This task was completed successfully and pilot training commenced on time. Between 1967-1971, while on deputation to HAL, Nasik Division, he was responsible, as SATCO, to set up not only the complete Air Traffic Control Services, but also ATC procedures for the surveillance Radar ensuring safe flying environments.

During the 1971 Indo-Pak operations, while he was SATCO at an Air Force Station in the Eastern Sector, he executed the task of re-organising the air traffic set-up from an alternate location in record time. Later in 1972, he was also appointed Command ATC Examiner. As SATCO of an Operational Command, he actively involved himself in the planning of various air exercises, Republic Day Fly Past and Fire-power Demonstration. All these required close coordination between ATC services of the Air Force and the DGCA. In every case, the planning and execution was done harmoniously and no untoward incident occurred.

Throughout his service career, Wg Cdr Dhyani has carried out with zeal, dedication and diligence not only his primary tasks, but also any other task entrusted to him.

For his outstanding professional skill, leadership and distinguished service of a very high order, the President is pleased to grant Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Dinesh Chandra Dhyani.

Wing Commander Bawa Guru Pratap Singh Bhalla was commissioned into the Flying Branch in Jun 63. He was first in order of merit in his course and was awarded the Sword of Honour. He has flown 5150 hours, mainly on trainer and heavy transport aircraft, of which 1170 hours were for instructional flying on the AN-12 aircraft. He was thrice commended for outstanding performance in the air.

Since 1979, when due to a defect in his vision, he was transferred to the Administrative Branch, he has served as SO to DCAS, Air Headquarters, SO to AOC-in-C, EAC and as the Coord Officer, HQ Western Air Command. He has worked most diligently and for very long hours. He has ensured excellent coordination in staff activities, and displayed admirable tact and courtesy in dealing with other defence services, para-military organisations and civil authority.

For his distinguished service of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Bawa Guru Pratap Singh Bhalla.

Squadron Leader Thakadiyil Joseph Mathai was commissioned in December 1968 and has been on the posted strength of HQ Western Air Command as Sports Secretary since Mar 80. During his stewardship as the Sports Secretary, WAC sports teams made outstanding improvement. From the fourth position in 1979-80, the WAC teams improved their performance to win the Overall Championship Trophy in the year 1981-82, 1982-83 and 1983-84, i.e. for three years in succession. Ten Air Force Swimming records and seven Weight Lifting records were created by WAC sportsmen and three new Air Force weight lifting champions emerged during this period.

During the last sports season, of the eighteen sports events, WAC teams won eight events, including Aquatics and Volleyball Championships, after a lapse of twelve and eight years respectively. Sqn Ldr Mathai has trained and inducted a number of novices in the field of Weight lifting, Body Building, Wrestling, Volleyball, Football, Boxing and Aquatics and has brought them up to the Air Force standards.

Sqn Ldr TJ Mathai is in his own right one of the most outstanding sportsmen of the Air Force. He is the first body builder from the Air Force and the Services, who had the distinction of winning the coveted "Bharat Shri" title in 1962. Thereafter, he continuously won it five times and maintained exceptional standards of body building for over nine years. He has also won "Mr. Services" title seven times.

He successfully coached and captained the Air Force and the Services Body Building teams from 1961 to 1975 and from 1980 to 1983.

For his outstanding performance as a body builder and dedication to the cause of sports in the Air Force, the President is pleased to grant Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Thakadiyil Joseph Mathai.

Wing Commander Awatar Krishan Zadoo (7922) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned in Oct 63. He has been working as Command Ground Electronics Systems Officer at Headquarters Western Air Command, Indian Air Force since Dec 83. During his tenure, he has shown remarkable foresight, vision and high sense of perception in his job spectrum. He has completed successful tenures earlier as Senior Engineer (Electronics) at two major fighter stations, besides a challenging tenure as the first Chief Examiner (Electronics) at the Groundcrew Examination Board.

Due to his dedicated efforts, backed by technical knowledge of high order, Wg Cdr Zadoo was largely responsible for installation and operational availability of the first two indigenous produced high power mobile radars at operational sites in Northern sector. He displayed initiative and drive in coordinating efforts connected with providing technical advice, maintenance support and spares for bringing indigenously produced high power static radar to operational status.

Wg Cdr Zadoo has displayed personal drive, enthusiasm and zeal in equipping Mobile Observation Flights, Signals Units and Flying Stations with telecommunications equipment, navigational aids etc, thereby enabling them to meet various operational requirements effectively. He has identified and successfully put into operational use indigenous power supply units and power packs for fitment into imported telecommunications equipment, thereby effecting foreign exchange savings.

The officer with his personal drive, initiative, professional zeal and unflinching devotion to duty has proved an asset to the Service. For his distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Awatar Krishan Zadoo.

Flight Lieutenant Gurmeet Singh Sandhu (14786) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical), who was commissioned in Indian Air Force on 03 Jan 77, has been on the posted strength of Headquarters Western Air Command (Unit), Air Force w.e.f. 16 Jun 80.

Flt Lt Sandhu has been an outstanding sportsman and has the rare distinction of representing the country in international competition in two games i.e., Basket Ball and Hand Ball. He captained the services team in National Basket Ball and Hand Ball championships winning both of them.

Flt Lt Sandhu represented India in the first Asian Youth Basket Ball championship at Seoul, South Korea in 1970. He was a member of the Services Basket Ball team from 1978 to 1981 and captained the Services team in 198081. He was a member of the Air Force Basket Ball team which had visited Bhutan on a good will visit on the invitation of His Majesty the King of Bhutan. Flt Lt Sandhu also represented India in the second Asian Hand Ball championship at Nanking, China in Oct-Nov 79. He was vice captain of the Indian Hand Ball team during the Asian Games held at Delhi in 1982 and also at the first International Hand Ball Tournament at Hyderabad in April, 1982. He has also the honour of winning seven consecutive National Gold Medals in the National Hand Ball Championships.

Apart from his personal achievements in sports, he has also, by his inspiring leadership, brought about tremendous improvements in the Basket Ball and Hand Ball teams of Western Air Command which resulted in the Command wining these two games in the last Air Force Sports meet. Due to his distinguished achievements towards the promotion of sports, he was adjudged the 'Best Sportsman of the year 1982' in the Indian Air Force and was presented the Chief of the Air Staff Trophy by then Prime Minister Shrimati Indira Gandhi in April, 1982.

Flight Lieutenant Gurmeet Singh Sandhu has not only brought laurels to the service in the field of sports but by his untiring efforts, personal example and fruitful guidance to the others has contributed to improvement in the standard of sports in the Air Force, the President is pleased to award him the Vishisht Seva Medal.

Wing Commander Hari Nath Sharma was commissioned in December, 1964. Since then he has held various important assignments with distinction. Prior to taking over as Command Organisation and Works Officer at an Operational Command in Nov 83, he held Provost assignments at Jamnagar, Command Headquarters and Air Headquarters.

For his excellent performance as Assistant Provost Marshal and Deputy Provost Marshal he was commended by AOC-in-C in Jan 77 and by the Chief of the Air Staff in Jan 79 and Jan 80.

As Command Staff Officer Provost and Officer in-Charge Personnel-1 at a Command Headquarters from Feb 82 to Nov 83, he took preventive measures which resulted in substantial reduction of indiscipline and criminal cases. He successfully investigated a number of cases which resulted in bringing the culprits to book. He also succeeded in the finalization of a number of pending Courts of Inquiry and civil suits. On taking over as Command Works Officer in Nov 83, he applied himself to the execution of works services with promptness and economy of effort. In order to ensure smooth functioning of the works machinery, he organized works workshop at one of the stations of the Command. The conduct of the symposium resulted in creating an excellent team spirit amongst engineers, using and contractors.

With his vast knowledge of works matters, he gave impetus to the works services at Station/Units under the Command.

In recognition of his exemplary leadership, professional competence and outstanding organizational acumen, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal posthumously to Wing Commander Hari Nath Sharma.

Squadron Leader Thakur Singh Datta was commissioned on 28 Jun 69 and has since then held various important field and staff appointments. The officer has a distinguished record of professionalism in the field of Air Defence.

The officer achieved category 'A' as a fighter controller and was posted as an instructor in Air Defence College. During the period of four years in the college, he was actively involved in the training of a large number of fighter controllers from friendly foreign countries. With his total devotion to duty and exceptional professional skill he was instrumental in enhancing the prestige of our air Force in the eyes of foreign student officers. For his exceptional devotion, he was commended by AOC-in-C No. 1 (Opl) Group in Jun 74 and by the Chief of the Air Staff in Aug 77.

He was posted to the Air Defence Section of an operational Command in Mar 83. In October 1983, he headed a team of fighter controllers to carry out low level interception trials catering to the specific needs of fighter controllers. He was involved in a number of other evaluation trials in operational fields where his contribution was substantial and praiseworthy. In December, 1983, he prepared the Command Air Defence Compendium which was appreciated at all levels. In Jan 85, he was given the task of revising the old Command Air Staff Instruction on Air Defence Ground Environment System, which he accomplished with great personal involvement and extreme devotion.

In recognition of his exceptional devotion to duty, commendable professional competence, initiative and drive, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Thakur Singh Datta.

Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 28 Oct 63. He has 2,663 hours of flying to his credit. During his 24 years of service he has held various prestigious and important appointments.

As a member of the directing staff at the prestigious Tactics and Combat Development Establishment Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu efforts were largely responsible for the creation of the publication Fighter Forum - a fighter tactics magazine on the lines of the USAF's Fighter Weapon Review.

Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu commanded a fighter squadron for a little over two years. During his tenure he was responsible for the introduction of numerous innovations many of which have since become standard concepts. The Squadron also became the first to operate supersonic aircraft from one of the world's highest airfields.

After an outstanding tenure as a squadron Commander, Group Captain Khatu was inducted into an operational command as the Ops 1A - a coveted and prestigious appointment. In this capacity, he brought all his flying experience and innovative thinking to bear on the planning of operational activities of the combat forces. It was at his initiative that high altitude live firing by supersonic aircraft was introduced in the Command.

In all the assignments entrusted to him, Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu has demonstrated a high degree of professionalism, leadership of a high order and exemplary devotion to duty.

For exceptional competence in his profession, innovative thinking and devotion to duty, the president is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu.

Gp Capt Amrit Lal has been working as Command Engineering Officer 'A' since August, 1988. He is responsible to look after the entire MiG Fleet under Western Air Command. During his tenure, he managed reequipment of two squadrons. He kept a close watch on the re-equipment of these squadrons and intervened to prevent bottlenecks and hold ups by thorough planning and intelligent anticipation. He also monitored the training programme for officers and technicians and ensured that adequate trained manpower was available in time to the squadrons to maintain new aircraft. The MiG fleet was plagued with problems in the year 1988-89 and 1989-90. Gp Capt Amrit Lal monitored these problems with great care and patience, he worked late hours to get the correct picture and apprise the authorities of the action to be taken.

He contacted the technical officers at the Wings and the Squadrons during the period every day and kept their morale high by encouraging them to come to grips with the problems faced by them. The MiG fleet is already on the way to recovery. Gp Capt Amrit Lal has contributed significantly towards its rejuvenation.

For his hard work, professional approach, selfless and indomitable effort under adverse circumstances, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Amrit Lal.

Group Captain Virender Singh was commissioned in AMC and directly seconded to Air Force in Feb 61. The officer has a thoroughly professional outlook and has shown extreme compassion and concern for the patient placed under his care. He acquired Post Graduation in Aviation Medicine from Bangalore University in 1971 and General Medicine from PGI, Chandigarh in 1974.

While on the posted strength of a Command as Dy Principal Medical Officer, he contributed tremendously towards medical administration of all the stations and units under that

Command. He had been responsible to create working relationship with all the stations which was based on mutual trust and understanding. With his vast knowledge, the officer rendered invaluable professional guidance, advice and support to all wings and stations. He cheerfully accepted additional load of work and applied himself whole heartedly whenever the situation demanded.

On 08 Oct 89, when an Mirage crash took place, Gp Capt Singh on his own dashed to the crash site and was the first MO to reach there. After ascertaining that the accident was fatal, he, with the help of the concerned SMO and his staff skillfully organised on the spot first aid for casualties and helped in prompt transfer of emergency surgery cases to hospitals thus saving many valuable lives.

During his tenure in the command as DPMO, one Complex consisting of approximately 10,000 men and families did not have an authorised MI Room. Gp Capt Singh took it as a personal challenge to ensure that better medical facilities are provided to these personnel. He was instrumental in getting a Govt sanction for a 10 bed-SSQ and a medium SHO for the complex. His total dedication to his profession and compassion towards the patients are praiseworthy. He is worthy of emulation by other medical officers.

For his professionalism, hard work, initiative and total dedication to medical profession, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Virender Singh.

Gp Capt Anil Kumar Trikha has been posted to HQ Western Air Command as Ops 1A since 15 Nov 89.

On assumption of duties, he quickly came to grips with the varied operational and training requirement of the forces under Western Air Command. His first major assignment was to revise the operational plans of WAC. However, the rapidly deteriorating situation in J&K necessitated immediate formulation of interim contingency plans. This involved intensive planning as regards redeployment of forces and updating of strike plans. Close co-ordination with the other branches was imperative to ensure prompt positioning of various armament stores and ground support equipment. Gp Capt Trikha worked tirelessly to accomplish these complex tasks with the utmost speed and efficiency within the prescribed time frame.

Consequent to the issue of revised Op Instructions by Air Headquarters, WAC plans were again recast. Gp Capt Trikha again applied himself to the enormous staff work involved and finished the task in time.

Apart from revision of operational plans, Gp Capt Trikha managed the routine tasks connected with the operational training of forces under WAC in a most methodical manner. He delegated responsibility wherever possible but never compromised on the high standard of staff work he set for himself. He invariably worked untiringly well beyond the usual working hours, sometimes without a break for months.

For his extreme devotion to duty, extraordinary capacity for hard work and total dedication to service the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt AK Trikha.

Air Cmde Manyam Mohan was commissioned on 04 Nov 62 in the AE (E) branch of the IAF.

He assumed the duties of the Command Systems Officer at Western Air Command in Mar 91. Air Cmde M Mohan is specifically accredited with integration of IFF system with PSM-33 radar, relocation of 3937 tonnes of War Wastage Reserves stores and identification and installation of special lighting conductors at a hill top to prevent damage to the radar which are distinct and definitive achievements.

A disciplined officer with ingrained sense of responsibility and deep devotion to duty, his advice is sought by one and all on professional matters. A leader of men, Air Cmde Mohan has shown rare efficiency, utmost sincerity, single-minded devotion and absolute loyalty in enhancing reliability of performance of all systems under his purview.

For his distinguished service of high order and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde M Mohan.

Capt Charanjit Singh Gill is working as the Ops I (F) at Western Air Command (WAC). Earlier he commanded a front line MiG-23 BN squadron and later was Chief Operational Officer (COO) at a premier base.

As COO, Gp Capt Gill was charged with the care, maintenance and utilisation of Sidhwan Khas (SK) range. He applied himself to these tasks with diligence and the SK range utilisation was very appreciably enhanced from about 5000 sorties to over 8000 sorties a year without seeking any additional resources.

At HQ WAC, Gp Capt Gill was made responsible for planning and conducting the command armament meet for 1992-93. The exercise was accomplished in the most professional manner and it was completed to the entire satisfaction of all concerned.

Gp Capt Gill has been closely associated with the development of additional air to ground range facilities in the command. With the inauguration of Toshe Maidan range in Jul 93, the long felt need of the service turned a reality wherein Gp Capt Gill's contribution is creditable.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Charanjit Singh Gill.

Wg Cdr Deepak Sawhney was commissioned on 22 January 1972 in the Flying branch of the IAF. A Fighter Combat Leader, he is qualified on MiG-23 BN and Mirage 2000 aircraft. During 1986-89 he was the Flight Commander of a Mirage 2000 Squadron and was most effectively in carrying out all supervisory duties. In addition, he also flew 600 hrs on the Mirage ac during this tenure. He has 2400 hrs of accident free flying to his credit.

Wg Cdr D Sawhney was selected to command a Pechora missile sqn located at one of the premier operational bases in Western Air Command (WAC). Just prior to his taking over the squadron, the unit had been inspected and declared non-operational. Despite having no previous experience on the Pechora systems, Wg Cdr Sawhney was able to identify the weaknesses of his unit and initiate remedial measures. Due to his unstinted efforts, pragmatic approach to problems and dynamic leadership he brought about a sea change in the operational capability of the squadron. From non-operational squadron the unit transformed under his guidance into the Best Pechora Squadron in WAC.

During Wg Cdr Sawhney's tenure the squadron participated in three live firing camps at the missile firing range. The firing on all three occasions was a complete success.

Wg Cdr Sawhney has been on the staff of HQ Western Air Command since 01 Jul. 93. He has been instrumental in evaluating the effectiveness of BAP-100 runway denial weapons as well as evolving a precise procedure for providing offensive air support by night on targets which are not illuminated.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr Deepak Sawhney.

Group Captain Anil Chopra was commissioned in the fighter stream on 02 Jun 73. A Qualified Flying Instructor and a Test Pilot, he was selected in the first batch of pilots to go to France for Mirage-2000 training. On return he formed the core group to train other pilots in India. The officer was subsequently sent to France for an Operational Electronic Warfare (EW) Course. He was instrumental in forming the first EW flight on Mirage-2000 aircraft. He was awarded VM in 1989. A graduate of Defence Services Staff College, he was selected to be the Staff Officer to the Chief of the Air Staff, an appointment he held with two successive Air Chiefs.

Gp Capt Chopra commanded a Mirage2000 Squadron from 1992 to 1994. Thereafter, he was appointed the senior staff officer to Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Air Command. Gp Capt Chopra led the team of staff with a high degree of efficiency. Through his operational background and logical approach he gave valuable inputs for decision making. He introduced new management techniques to increase individual performance and motivation of the staff. The officer has established an excellent rapport with field Commanders and Command Staff.

For distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Anil Chopra.

Right Lieutenant Samay Singh Yadav (21691) Admin has been serving the Indian Air Force since Nov 65 and has held various important and challenging appointments with distinction. He has proved himself to be highly capable and dedicated Officer who with his zeal and devotion to duty, has excelled in all the assignments and earned commendations by Air Force Commanders from time to time.

The Officer was assigned a challenging task of dealing with disciplinary cases, Courts of Inquiry, Honours & Awards, conduct of AF Day Parade and Welfare activities of all the Units under Western Air Command during 1994-95. He was also instrumental in enhancing the quality of life at AF Bases thus boosting the morale of all the personnel. During his period four major welfare projects viz. provision of desert coolers for personnel below Officers rank, Airmen's Club at all the stations, cubicals for living-in airmen and provision of hot meals at Airmen Messes were launched by Western Air Command. Flight Lieutenant Yadav monitored these projects himself, visited various Stations/ Bases, arranged financial help to the needy Stations and ensured timely completion of these Projects thus exhibiting once again a high sense of dedication, pride in his profession, devotion to his duties unmindful of his personal comforts' and outstanding administrative skill.

During 1996 Flight Lieutenant Yadav was assigned the task of improving the facilities at Air Force Sports Complex including AF Golf Club, New Delhi. Under his Golf stewardship, the facilities at the Sports Complex and the Golf Club enhanced manifold in a short time. It is largely as a result of his efforts that AF Golf Club is today rated as one of the most Prestigious Club in the Capital.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award "Vishisht Seva Medal" to Flight Lieutenant Samay Singh Yadav.

As a flying instructor Wing Commander Bhakoo was instrumental in carrying out trials for carriage of rocket pods and bomb racks on a trainer aircraft. As Station Flight Safety Officer, his personal attention to snag rectification and defect investigations ensured that the concept of safe flying was effectively implemented. His hard work, dedication and initiative were evident as his base became the first station to install anti bird measures like the Zon Gun, ahead of the 10 priority airfields.

The Officer is presently posted to a Command HQ. The officer played a pivotal role in setting up Local Area Network (LAN) and a Wide Area Network (WAN) in the Command HQ and its various stations using Tropo lines. He was personally involved in explaining the intricacies of the LAN & WAN to all the bases, convincing the non-believer into accepting computerisation. The proof was that the Command yearly exercise was run totally on the WAN and LANs with no use whatsoever of telephones between Command HQ and Stations. All air tasking orders, executive orders, reports, feed backs and returns were sent/received on this system. A very high degree of perseverance, hard work, ingenuity and dedication to duty was displayed by the officer in achieving a Computer Network System with near to nil resources.

The officer's experience in flying two types of fighter aircraft was called upon in the formulation of PART-III for the Command with emphasis on strike planning, tactical routing, formation of Tasking Orders, feedback reports and returns. The officer played a pivotal role in the installation of scanners at eight Air Force bases in the Command for the passage of information from the FR Sqns. This system proved to be most cost effective and efficient making the old Vicon system redundant.

In recognition of his hard work, dedication to duty, perseverance to achieve results and his contribution, to the Air Force, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Ashwani Bhakoo.

Squadron Leader Praveen Kumar S Patil (16981) Logistics, a Graduate of National Defence Academy was originally commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 29 Dec 82. He has 1730 hrs of accident free flying on MiG-21 variants to his credit. He has now been placed in permanent low medical category due to a medical disorder. After a very successful tenure as SFSIO of Air Force Station, Sirsa he has been taken on the posted strength of a Command HQ with effect from 08 Feb 99 and is functioning as Project Leader TADIDS (Tactical Air Defence Integrated Display System).

He was entrusted with the task of developing TADIDS nearly two years ago. This was a complex and sensitive task involving Air Defence of the Nation and the solutions were not simple. The officer burnt the mid night oil and succeeded in developing TADIDS at no cost to the exchequer by intelligently integrating the existing hardware and resources available with the Command. TADIDS was thus born and turned out to be a futuristic, world class, windows based, multimedia, user friendly, near real time, interactive and secured Internet software that the IAF was desperately looking for all these years.

TADIDS was then successfully field tested in 1998 in several exercises. The officer single handedly conducted the required on the job training on installation and operation of TADIDS in units involved in these exercise. On breakout of hostilities in the Kargil Sector, the officer was directed at short notice to make TADIDS operational for the Northern Sector, which he successfully accomplished within the available resources and time frame.

For his successful innovative work and dedication to duty, the Hon'ble President is please to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron Leader Praveen S Patil.

Squadron Leader Ramesh Jotirao Oulkar (18630) Adm/ATC was commissioned in Dec 1986.

Squadron Leader Oulkar is a highly motivated officer who willingly and enthusiastically shoulders additional responsibilities. His exceptional qualities were identified in streamlining the system of work maintaining good rapport with all for execution of policies/ Instructions, maintenance of discipline in general and keen interest to solve the problems. The Subroto Park has undergone noticeable transformation in terms of quality of output, which has been possible due to his dynamism, hard work, intelligent use of resources and above all his capability to put a plan into practice. Under his stewardship the quality of life for personnel in respect of water, sewage, electricity and maintenance of SMQ's and surroundings was enhanced many-fold. Also his personal attention to improve Airmen Mess, Billets and Bar has been well noticeable. Clearing the vegetation and beautification on Arjan Path and area outside the fencing of Subroto Park was possible due to his keen interest. His involvement in pursuing the various works services for beautification of subzi mandi, CSD shopping complex, canteen and creating parking lanes at public places have been highly appreciable. His active interest in the enhancement of security awareness among the personnel will immensely help to improve the security environment of Subroto Park. Squadron Leader Oulkar has displayed high degree of professionalism and competence. He contributed towards the realignment of ATS routes and local-flying areas of airbases under WAC to ensure safer flying enviornment to civil flights and provide more tactical freedom to military traffic. His efforts on updating WAN and data analysis is praiseworthy.

Through hard work and personnel management of high order he has been able to imbibe in his subordinates a zeal for commitment to task and obtain their willing support. This has been amply manifested in accomplishment of time bound tasks through teamwork, individual commitment and motivation. The superlative performance, discipline, reliability, integrity, loyalty, maturity and dedication to duty of the officer have always been an asset to the Air Force.

In recognition of his all round excellence, his contribution to the AF in the field and for his professional skill, exceptional devotion to duty, leadership, initiative, humane approach and for distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Sqn Ldr RJ Oulkar.

Air Vice Marshal Deepak Kumar Sen (11915) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned as an engineer in the erstwhile Tech Signals Branch of the 1AF on 05 Jan 1970. After having undergone the Intra Branch Conversion Course at Air Force Technical College, Bangalore in 1972-73, he was converted to the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) Branch. In 33 years of distinguished service, he has held several important command and staff appointments which include Chief Engineering Officer of a Fighter Base, Command Engineering Officer at South Western Air Command, Command Systems Officer at Western Air Command and Commanding Officer of an Electronic Warfare (EW) Maintenance and Training Unit. He has undergone Anti Tank Guided Missile Simulator Course and Mirage 2000 course in France and Long Defence Management Course at College of Defence Management. In 1975, he led the Non Destructive Testing (NDT) Team in the retrieval of aircraft trapped in the hangars after the cyclone at Jamnagar, thus effecting a speedy retrieval of the vital strike force of the IAF. After undergoing training in France on maintenance and induction of the state-of-art Mirage-2000 aircraft, he made an outstanding contribution towards setting up of the required maintenance infrastructure for receiving and operating the Mirage-2000 fleet.

In 1995, while commanding a prestigious EW Maintenance and Training Unit, he designed, fabricated and operationalised DC control amplifiers for antenna rotation for one of the critically important ELINT airborne equipment, as vendor sources were nonexistent at that time. He also authored the IAF EW Maintenance Policy, and subsequently assisted in the evolution of the IAF Laser policy.

As Chief Engineering Officer during 19982000 at one of the premier air bases of the IAF, he designed a shock resistant trolley and had it fabricated in the base workshop for carrying sensitive photo-reconnaissance equipment thus drastically reducing damage to the sensitive gyro mechanisms during ground handling. His acute engineering sense and direction helped the station achieve the highest ever-sustained serviceability of the Jaguar fleet.

While Serving in Headquarters Western Air Command during 2003, he has been instrumental in realising the concept of online computerised management and monitoring of all armament stores to ensure currency and saving of time. Also, under his leadership and guidance, it has been possible to transport, install and operate indigenous radars successfully at high altitudes for the first time in Air Force history, greatly enhancing air surveillance capability of the IAF.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Vice Marshal Deepak Kumar Sen.

Group Captain Amit Aneja, VM (14668) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned on 26 Dec 1976 in the Flying Branch of the 1AF. During 26 years of service, he has held several important appointments that include Flight Commander of a Mirage-2000 Sqn, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of a Forward Base Supporting Unit (FBSU), Commanding Officer of a MiG-21 Sqn and Directing Staff at College of Air Warfare. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) and an alumnus of Air Command and Staff College in USA. He was awarded Commendation by AOC-in-C on two occasions and Vayu Sena Medal for devotion to duty on 26 Jan 1999.

Since Jul, 2000 he is posted as Ops 1 (B) at Headquarters, Western Air Command (WAC) and is looking after Command Air Tasking Strike Planning and Air Warfare (CATSPAW). Gp Capt Aneja has been instrumental in reinvigorating the CATSPAW cell, which is the core of Command Air Operations. He has completely revamped the working procedures and systematised collection of target information and target to weapons matching to ensure fast and easy access, resulting in very efficient planning. His single-minded approach in improvement of the command ops planning process has been appreciated by Air Headquarters as well as by field units. This has led to a fruitful and free interaction with the Army particularly in joint targeting and air ops in support of ground forces. He has been instrumental in creating a synergy among various branches of the Command and field units to optimise the operational capabilities of the Command staff.

Gp Capt Aneja has also been responsible for induction of the Integrated Command Air Tasking System. He has not only facilitated adapting the system but also in improving it and disseminating it to the field units. With foresight, he has been involved in planning and execution of command exercises. This has contributed significantly to raise the operational effectiveness of Western Air Command. He has performed well beyond his charter of duties with single mindedness and with no regard to personal comfort.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Amit Aneja VM.

Group Captain Yadunath Jayram Sathe (15044) Logistics was commissioned in the Logistics Branch of the IAF on 10 Jun 1977. He has held various staff and instructional appointments, which include Asst Director Armament and Safety Equipment at Air HQ, Directing Staff (Logistics) at Air Force Academy, Senior Logistics Officer (SLO) at Air Force Station, Jamnagar. His contribution as Senior Logistics Officer at Air Force Station, Jamnagar was particularly noteworthy during the cyclone of Jun 1998, Op preparedness during Kargil Op 1999 and the Bhuj earthquake in Jan 01. Gp Capt Sathe is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) Wellington. Presently, he is posted as Command Logistics Maintenance Officer (CLMO) at Headquarter Western Air Command (HQ WAC) since 01 Jul 2002.

At HQ WAC the task of managing logistics supplies to all WAC units during 'Op Parakram' was a daunting task. Later, during Oct-Nov 2002, deinduction of forces and equipment needed a huge transportation effort. Gp Capt Sathe handled both the tasks professionally and with aplomb. Post 'Op Parakram', he initiated a programme to ascertain and replenish the deficiencies in tentage and camouflage nets, caused due to long term deployment. He has also brought out a manual on clothing.

Gp Capt Sathe actively monitored the logistic activities at all WAC bases and guided the SLOs towards purposeful logistics support to all operational and maintenance tasks assigned to the units and stations. His proactive logistics planning, positive attitude and continuous dialogue with SLOs, brought about a qualitative change in the logistics support at the field level. As CLMO, he tirelessly pursued the supply chain for procurement of Aircraft on Ground (AOG) spares. He gave valuable and timely inputs on shortage of tyres for fighter ac which enabled taking corrective measures to tide over the critical period. Further, four Sqns were re-located during past six months. For the first time, the Sqn moves were accomplished using road transportation. Apart from the savings accrued, the advantages of doorto-door delivery ensured safety of equipment. MT management by SLOs went through the period of consolidation in 2002-03. Careful handling of MT funds along with planned down-gradation of vintage vehicles resulted in net savings of over 12% during the year 2002-03. His follow-up on rotation of vehicles at Leh and Thoise has improved the vintage of vehicles at these Stations.

Gp Capt Sathe has tremendous teambuilding and management abilities. These, coupled with astute professional knowledge, foresight and an eye for perfection have enabled him to post a new benchmark in logistics management in this premier operational command.

In recognition of his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Yadunath Jayram Sathe.

Group Captain Pankaj Tyagi (13901) Med was commissioned on 16 Jan 1975 in the Medical branch of the IAF. During his 29 years of service he has held important appointments including that of Assistant Professor at IAM, Bangalore, Advisor, Air India Bombay and Senior Advisor IAM. He has been commended by the AOC-in-C. Presently he is on the posted strength of HQ WAC since 07 Jan 02 as Dy PMO (S). Gp Capt Tyagi is a renowned Aviation Medicine Specialist who has to his credit a number of very prestigious scientific papers. His field of research has covered almost all topics of relevance, which have won accolades from professionals in the field of aviation. He has very competently managed the civil aviation medical duties in India and abroad.

He has been the Editor of the first draft of 'The Text Book on Aviation Medicine' and has been the Editor of Indian Journal of Aerospace Medicine for four years. He has made the IAF proud while representing it in various Committees at DRDO, DGCA and ISRO. He conceived a very thought provoking service paper on 'Nuclear and Biological Warfare' during Op Parakram. He was also instrumental in the design of Operating schedules for aircrew on sudden induction to high altitudes.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Pankaj Tyagi.